About 1885
1885 is a hidden-gem bar and live-music venue in Auckland’s Britomart district, nestled in the historic Stanbeth House. It takes its name from the year the Stanbeth building was erected (1885 (britomart.org ) (concreteplayground.com )). The space is designed with vintage club flair – think exposed 19th-century brick walls, polished kauri-beam ceilings and buttoned leather lounges (concreteplayground.com ). Concrete Playground noted 1885 “features restored brick, exposed kauri beams and luxurious leather couches” and boasts an extensive wine cellar and creative cocktail program (concreteplayground.com ) (concreteplayground.com ). The vibe is intimate yet lively: the main floor has a large bar and dance area, with a mezzanine lounge tucked behind. By night 1885 is a go-to hotspot for the city’s after-hours crowd, with a reputation for quality drinks and late-night energy (concreteplayground.com ) (concreteplayground.com ).
Events and Programming
At 1885 you’ll find a mix of live jazz and club nights. Its basement “Cellar” bar hosts Auckland jazz ensembles and original-music nights several times a week (often Wednesdays through Saturdays), while DJs and touring acts take the stage on the main floor. The venue has even held post-concert after-parties (for example, the official 6LACK afterparty in Oct 2017 had a $30 door charge (www.ticketfairy.com )). In a typical week you might hear smooth vocal jazz one night, electronic or hip-hop beats another, with themed nights (Latin parties, funk or soul grooves) on weekends. Local promoters and the Creative Jazz Club regularly schedule gigs here, often with modest cover charges. Ticket prices vary: standard club nights are usually free or a small cover (~$10–$15), while big events or one-off concerts can be ~$20–$30 (like that 6LACK afterparty which charged $30 (www.ticketfairy.com )). Advance-sale tickets (through promoters) and door sales are both common, so check upcoming event listings or 1885’s official channels for exact dates and prices.
Tickets and Booking
Most nights at 1885 don’t require advance tickets – you can just show up and pay the cover at the door (if there is one). For special events (big-name DJs or headliners), tickets may go on sale ahead of time. There’s no conventional box office – tickets, if needed, are often sold online via event promoters. Fans are advised to watch local event listings and 1885’s social media for announcements. If the event is ticketed, buy early: popular shows may sell out. Otherwise, arrive 10–15 minutes before start time and you can usually pay at the door. Covers vary by act – for example, 6LACK’s 2017 afterparty was $30 at the door (www.ticketfairy.com ), but local jazz or DJ nights are frequently free or under $10. In general, expect tiered pricing: cheaper general admission tickets, with slightly higher “fast track” or VIP options if offered (though 1885’s setup means most spaces are first-come seating).
Seating and Layout
1885 spans three levels with a combined capacity around 500 people (counting all floors). The Main Room on ground level has the bar and dancefloor. A mezzanine overlooks the dancefloor and is furnished with deep leather-covered couches (ideal for a quiet perch away from the crowd) (concreteplayground.com ). Directly below the Main Room is the cocktail-bar Basement (“Cellar”), reached by stairs down, featuring a few intimate leather booths and a small stage (concreteplayground.com ). The Basement is often used for jazz sets or acoustic gigs, while the Main Room handles louder club events. Seating is mainly lounge chairs and bar stools – there are no numbered seats. The best views are either up front by the stage/booth on the ground floor or on the mezzanine so you can see the whole room. Watch out for pillars and low ceilings under the mezzanine on the dancefloor, as they can obstruct sight-lines. When live music is playing, sound is quite good, especially in the Basement where acoustics are warm; on the Main floor the high-energy DJ sound can be quite loud. VIP areas are minimal – aside from booking the whole Basement for private parties, there are no marked VIP tables.
Getting There and Parking
1885 is at 27–29 Galway Street in the Britomart precinct of central Auckland (the exact entrance is down a small lane on the east side of the block). Don’t look for it on Customs Street; instead walk just a short block from the Britomart Transport Centre to reach Galway Street. If arriving by public transit, take any train or inner-city bus to the Britomart hub – from the station it’s a 2-minute walk east along Galway. Many city buses on Queen Street or Customs Street also stop within a block or two. The CityLink central bus loop and Auckland’s main ferry terminal (Downtown Ferry, at the end of Quay Street) are both only a 5–10 minute walk away, so 1885 is very transit-friendly.
If you drive, paid parking is available nearby. The Britomart area has multi-level car parks (for example, Wilson Parking lots on Customs Street West and smaller private lots) a couple of minutes’ walk from the venue. Metred street parking is limited but free on evenings and Sundays (check signs; typically the meters run weekdays ~8am–6pm). Valet parking is also offered at the nearby Hotel Britomart for guests. For taxis or rideshares, the easiest drop-off point is Galway Street (ask to be let out by Tuawhiti Lane/Commerce Street, which leads directly to the hidden 1885 entrance).
Inside the Venue
Once inside 1885, expect a dimly-lit, lounge atmosphere. The main bar has polished dark-wood counters and warm gold lighting; mirrors and vintage posters (and often live jazz instruments) add to the moody décor. In front of the bar is open standing-room space for DJs or groups, plus tables and stools along the edges. The upscale nature means smart-casual attire fits best. At busy shows, there will be a security and admissions desk at the front: they will ID-card adults (strictly 18+ after dark), handle any ticketing or cover charge, and maybe have a quick bag check. Streetwear is allowed, but avoid overly casual sports gear and baseball hats if possible (the bouncers appreciate neat look). No outside food or drink is permitted. There is usually a coat-check area (often for a small fee on cold nights) where you can leave larger bags or jackets. Restrooms are located off the main lounge area (and another set downstairs); all are standard bar-style facilities and may have a small queue on busy nights.
The bar menu offers a short selection of quality eats and drinks. A recent promotion highlighted 1885’s wood-fired pizzas and creative gin-infused cocktails (new.grabone.co.nz ). In general expect shareable snacks (think gourmet burgers or toasted sandwiches) and a full bar of craft beers, wines, and cocktails. The cocktail program is a focus: expect house-made infusions, an extensive gin and whisky list, and wine from the enclosed cellar. Service is friendly and typically attentive – bartenders and waitstaff will find you spots on couches or offer trays for drinks. The whole venue is well-connected; cell phone coverage is good and some bars offer free wifi for patrons (ask the bar staff for any login if needed).
By sound and lighting technology, 1885 is professional-grade. The PA system delivers solid bass for club nights and clear warm tones for jazz. There are multicolored stage lights and LED strips lining the room, and even small moving spotlights for big events. During performances, both the main floor and the Basement have adequate lighting to see performers, but light levels stay low to preserve atmosphere (so cameras on phones work fine, but bring take care with a flash). Photography for personal snapshots is usually okay; for professional use, check with management in advance.
Nearby Amenities
Britomart is Auckland’s premier dining and nightlife precinct, so 1885 is surrounded by great options. For dinner before a show, the block has restaurants like Café Hanoi (Vietnamese, just around the corner), Amano (Italian bakery-cafe), and Mr Morris (New Zealand modern cuisine) – all within a couple of minutes’ walk. Also nearby are popular bars such as the Britomart Country Club rooftop (outdoor cocktails), Glasshouse Bar & Grill, and chamber-style speakeasies, in case you want a pre-show drink. On the opposite side of Customs Street you’ll find busy spots like Ghost Street Kitchen & Bar or The Cubana (Latin/Spanish fare).
If you need to stay overnight, the upscale Hotel Britomart is literally across the street from 1885. Other nearby hotels within a 5–10 minute walk include Adina Apartment Hotel Britomart and the SkyCity/Novotel complex by Federal Street.
When planning your visit, note that Britomart is lively on weekends but quiets down in the wee hours. Late-night public transport is available but thins out after midnight – taxis and rideshares remain an easy option. There are a few late-night eateries nearby (like Havana Coffee Shop or 24-hour fast food on Queen St) for post-show snacks. In summer especially, arriving early (around 7–8pm) lets you enjoy the Britomart sun on Takutai Square or the 1885 verandah bar (new.grabone.co.nz ) before indoor festivities begin.
What Makes This Venue Special
1885 stands out in Auckland’s scene for its blend of heritage and nightlife. It occupies Stanbeth House, a Category II heritage building dating from 1885 (britomart.org ), so you’re literally partying inside a piece of local history. Unlike many clubs with flashy street fronts, 1885 preserves the old-world feel – you enter through a discreet brick arch and step into what feels like a 1920s salon. Inside, the rich textures of the original architecture (brickwork, timber beams, decorative staircases) give it character you don’t find at modern venues. As one reviewer put it, the “entrance isn’t flashy” but the attention to vintage detail makes 1885 “all the ingredients for a serious night out” (concreteplayground.com ).
The hidden nature and layout also create a “speakeasy” vibe that both performers and guests love. Private leather booths in the Basement have been compared to luxurious lounge suites (concreteplayground.com ), a setting very different from a typical bar. Musicians enjoy its acoustics (jazz sounds warm in the wood-lined Cellar) and audiences enjoy discovering the place’s secrets (it’s fun to find the back alley door, then wander upstairs to a surprise cocktail lounge). Over the years 1885 has earned a reputation as a cultural hub – concreteplayground noted it became “the go-to for late night dwellers” (concreteplayground.com ) in Britomart. Local lore even celebrates the night when international acts drop by after arena shows. It’s this mix of historical charm, lively music, and quality drinks that makes 1885 a beloved local icon.
Visitor Tips and Information
Dress Code & Entry: Smart-casual is appropriate – think neat jeans or black pants with a collared shirt or dress. The bouncers enforce the 18+ policy strictly, so bring valid photo ID (NZ driver’s licence or passport). Expect a brief security check and cover charge if advertised. Try to arrive early for events (15–30 minutes) to avoid lineups, especially on Fridays and Saturdays.
What to Bring: A small bag or purse is fine (large backpacks or sports bags may be asked to leave in the cloakroom). Earplugs can be handy for dance-heavy nights. It’s also wise to carry some cash: while cards are accepted at the bar, many people tip bartenders in cash. If you plan to dance, comfortable shoes help (no flip-flops or bare feet, please).
Accessibility: The main floor of 1885 is wheelchair-accessible via a ramp, and the ground-level bathrooms include an accessible stall. Note that the Basement is only reachable by stairs, so it is not wheelchair-friendly. If you or a guest need accommodations, it’s best to plan seating on the main floor near the lifts (if any).
Avoid Common Pitfalls: Don’t expect parking right out front – allow extra time to find a spot or use transit. Also, the bar can get crowded; if you’re attending with a group make a meet-up plan in case you split up. Photography with personal phones is fine, but avoid flagrant filming (industrial cameras or tripods are not permitted). Lastly, the doors can close abruptly at last-minute performers (typical of clubs), so staying through an entire show is recommended once you’re in.
Accessibility and Inclusivity: The venue generally complies with NZ accessibility standards. There is level access into the ground floor and a dedicated accessible toilet. Service animals (guide dogs) are welcome. If you have specific needs (hearing assistance, extra-wide aisles, etc.), emailing the venue ahead of time is a good idea.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of events are held at 1885 in Britomart?
1885 presents a mix of live music and club nights. You’ll often find jazz or lounge music in the Basement mid-week, and DJs or themed dance parties on Fridays and Saturdays. The venue also hosts occasional special events like album launches or after-concert parties (for example, they’ve hosted official after-parties for touring artists). Check local listings for exact schedules, as programming rotates frequently.
Do I need to book tickets in advance for 1885?
For most nights, no advance booking is needed – you can usually pay a cover charge at the door on arrival. However, for big shows or special events, pre-sale tickets may be issued. In those cases, it’s wise to buy ahead through the event promoter or the venue’s official announcements to secure entry.
What is the typical cover charge or ticket price?
Cover charges at 1885 vary by event. Low-key evenings or jazz nights often have free entry or a nominal fee (under $10). For headline DJs or special parties, you might pay anywhere from $15 up to ~$30, depending on the act. One example was a 2017 afterparty that charged $30 on the door (www.ticketfairy.com ). Always check the event details in advance for the exact price.
When should I arrive for a show at 1885?
Show start times vary, but generally events kick off 9pm–10pm. For busy club nights, it’s smart to arrive early (30–45 minutes before start) to get in quickly and grab a good spot. If you arrive very late (after 11pm), you might face a queue or even get turned away if capacity is reached.
What is the address of 1885 and how do I find the entrance?
1885 is located at 27–29 Galway Street, Britomart, Auckland 1010. The entrance is not obvious on the main street. To find it, walk off Customs Street around to the eastern side of the block – look for a brick arch or small shaded alley leading into the bar. It’s literally one block from the Britomart train/bus station, so you can also find it by consulting any map of Britomart (just search ‘Galway Street’).
What are the opening hours of 1885?
Opening hours can vary depending on programming. As of the latest info, 1885 generally opens in the afternoon (around 3–4pm) on Thursday through Saturday. It tends to stay open late — often closing around 2–3am after events. The venue is usually closed Sunday through Tuesday. These hours can change for special events or holidays, so it’s best to check the current posting.
Is there parking near 1885, and how much does it cost?
Yes, there are paid parking options in Britomart. The closest are Wilson parking lots on Customs Street West (just a couple-minute walk away), and some nearby open parking areas. Metered street parking runs on weekdays (typically 8am–6pm) and often becomes free after hours – you should double-check posted signs when you park. If you’re staying at the nearby Hotel Britomart, valet parking is also available for guests. Rates in central Auckland vary but expect roughly $3–$5 per half-hour by meter and about $15–$20 for an evening in a car park.
Does 1885 have a dress code or ID requirements?
Yes, 1885 is an 18+ venue after dark. You’ll need to show valid photo ID at the door (NZ driver licence or passport) to enter. Dress code is smart casual – no beachwear, sports jerseys, flip-flops or caps. Generally bar/lounge attire is fine. If you look obviously underdressed (or over- or under-aged), the door staff may refuse entry.
Is seating available, or is the venue standing-room only?
1885 is primarily a standing/lounge venue. There are couches and bar stools scattered around, especially upstairs on the mezzanine, but most tickets are general admission. If you need to sit, grab one of the lounge chairs in the back or claim a spot on the mezzanine couches early. There are no assigned seats. For larger groups, it can be tough to find contiguous seats once the place fills up, so arriving early is recommended.
Is 1885 wheelchair accessible?
The ground floor of 1885 is accessible: there is a ramped or level entrance into the main room and an accessible restroom. However, the Basement (downstairs cocktail lounge) is up a flight of stairs and not wheelchair-friendly. If mobility is a concern, choose spots on the main level or mezzanine. You may wish to contact the venue ahead of time for any special accommodations.
Can I take photos or video inside 1885?
Personal snapshot photos with a phone are generally allowed, as 1885 has no strict “no phone” rule. Just be discreet – avoid bright camera flashes during performances and don’t block other guests. Videotaping an entire performance isn’t permitted without permission. Professional cameras or tripods are absolutely not allowed unless you have sign-off from the venue or the performers.
Are there any coat check or bag check services?
Yes, 1885 typically offers a cloakroom where guests can check coats and larger bags – especially useful on winter nights. A small fee (e.g. $2–$5) may be charged per item. It’s not mandatory to use the check, you can carry a bag if it’s compact. However, for peace of mind on crowded nights it’s handy to drop bulky items off at the front desk.
Does 1885 serve food? What kind?
Yes, despite being a bar, 1885 offers a quality food menu. Expect shareable fare: for example, they’re known for wood-fired pizzas and gourmet burgers or sliders. A recent promotion highlighted the “amazing wood-fired pizza” on offer (new.grabone.co.nz ). The focus is on tasty bar snacks rather than full formal meals. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are usually available on request. Full drink service (cocktails, beer, wine) complements the food menu.
